The Palazzo Pignatelli Di Monteleone
Where Degas’ art meets five centuries of Neapolitan history
A Timeless Charming Residence
In the 16th-century Palazzo Pignatelli di Monteleone, where the great Impressionist painter Edgar Degas lived and worked, Maison Degas now stands. A national monument that tells centuries of Neapolitan history.
Five Centuries of History
The Palazzo Pignatelli di Monteleone was built in the 16th century at the behest of Duchess Giroloma Colonna, occupying the entire area between Calata Trinità Maggiore and Vico Monteleone. In 1718, Duke Niccolò commissioned architect Ferdinando Sanfelice to carry out renovation work, creating one of the most grandiose portals of the Baroque era.
This palace, now a National Monument, expressed the splendor of the Kingdom’s capital. Within its walls echoed the hooves of steeds pulling sparkling carriages, while lavish parties with distinguished guests were celebrated.
The Legendary Receptions
Giacomo Casanova recalls in his “Memoirs” the luxurious receptions at Palazzo Pignatelli, the dinners of macaroni and seafood, and especially the long nights spent at the gaming table with Duke Pignatelli di Monte Leone and other Neapolitan aristocrats.
In those halls echoed the constant clatter of horse hooves pulling splendid carriages, from which emerged ladies dressed in splendor and sophistication, surrounded by an aura of mystery.
Edgar Degas' Studio
An inscription on the portal, donated in 1996 by the French Institute Grenoble, recalls that Edgar Hilaire Degas (1834-1917) lived and worked here during his Neapolitan stays.
The painter’s grandfather, Hilaire Degas, a banker of French origin, gradually purchased the entire palace between 1823 and 1832, transforming it into the family residence. It was here that young Edgar developed the artistic sensitivity that would make him immortal, breathing in Naples’ lively and theatrical atmosphere.
Architectural Magnificence
The majestic portal alternates decoratively between dark piperno – the characteristic Neapolitan stone extracted from Vesuvius’ lava – and white marble friezes. Inside, beyond the imposing piperno stairs, an antechamber opens up with a delightful white marble staircase with fluted scrolls.
In 1723, the palace housed over a thousand paintings by famous artists: Carracci, Guercino, Bruegel, Tintoretto, Rubens, Vaccaro, Giordano, Solimena and an artistic nativity scene.
In the Heart of the UNESCO Historic Center
In Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, at the beginning of Spaccanapoli and the Decumani, the palace offers privileged access to the UNESCO World Heritage Historic Center. Between the austere Gothic style of the Santa Chiara Complex and the effervescent Baroque of the Gesù Nuovo Church, under the gaze of the Immaculate Virgin overlooking the obelisk.
A location that reveals 3,000 years of history to guests through stone shaped by fine architecture, in the beating heart of ancient Naples.
Experience History in the Present
Stay in the bright rooms of Palazzo Pignatelli di Monteleone and breathe in the atmosphere that inspired Degas. A charming residence where history, art, and Neapolitan hospitality blend into a unique experience.
